Method of preparing a product composition comprising a discrete particle and an aqueous base composition

ABSTRACT

Disclosed is a method of preparing a product composition comprising steps of: Preparing a mixture composition comprising a surfactant and a high melting point fatty compound and benefit agent; Separately preparing an aqueous base composition comprising an aqueous carrier and water soluble polymer, wherein the base composition is substantially free of a detersive surfactant selected from anionic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactant, amphoteric surfactant, and combinations thereof; Mixing the mixture composition and the aqueous base composition to form a discrete particle of the mixture composition dispersed in the aqueous base composition. Alternatively, the method comprises steps of preparing a discrete particle of the mixture composition; and mixing it with the aqueous composition. The methods of the present invention provide a product composition with at least one the followings: more flexibility in the product composition rheology; improved stability in the product composition; improved deposition of benefit agents; and improved visual/aesthetic appearance.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a method of preparing a product composition comprising steps of: Preparing a mixture composition comprising a surfactant and a high melting point fatty compound and a benefit agent; Separately preparing an aqueous base composition comprising an aqueous carrier and a water soluble polymer, wherein the base composition is substantially free of a detersive surfactant selected from anionic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactant, amphoteric surfactant, and combinations thereof; Mixing the mixture composition and the aqueous base composition to form a discrete particle of the mixture composition dispersed in the aqueous base composition. Alternatively, the method comprises steps of preparing a discrete particle of the mixture composition; and mixing it with the aqueous composition. The methods of the present invention provide a product composition with at least one the followings: more flexibility in the product composition rheology; improved stability in the product composition; improved deposition of benefit agents; and improved visual/aesthetic appearance.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A variety of approaches have been developed to condition the hair. A common method of providing conditioning benefit is through the use of conditioning agents such as cationic surfactants and polymers, high melting point fatty compounds, low melting point oils, silicone compounds, and mixtures thereof. Most of these conditioning agents are known to provide various conditioning benefits.

For example, United States Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0103923 from SAN-EI KAGAKU relates to a composition containing an alcohol, the composition being for blending in a hair treatment agent, and hair conditioners prepared from the hair treatment agents. SAN-EI publication discloses a variety of such compositions for blending in hair treatment agents, including compositions containing fatty alcohols and cationic surfactants, for example, in Examples 100-110. The SAN-EI publication also discloses hair conditioners by using such compositions for blending, for example, in Example 112-118.

In Examples 112-117 of the SAN-EI publication, the compositions for blending (Examples 102, 103, 104 and 106) are heated up to 80° C. or more, then mixed with mainly water to make hair conditioners. The compositions for blending (Examples 102, 103, 104 and 106) used therein contain higher percentages of liquid material (for example, 27% propylene glycol in Example 102, 47% of liquid petrolatum in Example 103, 43% of glycerin and 18% of liquid petrolatum in Example 104, and 28% of glycerin in Example 106) together with fatty alcohols and cationic surfactants.

In Example 118 of the SAN-EI publication, a composition for blending (Example 111) is added to an emulsion cooled down below 40° C., wherein the emulsion is of water and an additive composition containing a cationic surfactant and a fatty alcohol, and further mixed with water to make hair conditioner. The composition for blending (Example 111) contains ethanol, cationic surfactant, and more than 80% of water, and no fatty alcohols.

SAN-EI publication also discloses preparation of hair conditioners in Examples 150-156. In Example 150-154, compositions for blending (Examples 123, 126, 127, 130, 133, and 134) are heated to above 80° C., and added to water which is also heated to above 80° C., and emulsified and cooled to make hair conditioners. The compositions for blending (Examples 123, 126, 127, 130, 133, and 134) contain cationic surfactants and fatty alcohols, and also 15-20% of liquid oils (in Examples 123, 130 and 133) or 6-8% of polyoxyethylene esters (in Examples 126, 127 and 134).

Another example can be United States Patent Application Publication No. 2003/223952 from P&G relating to a process for preparing cleansing composition comprising (a) combining a fatty alcohol and a surfactant in a premix at a temperature sufficient to allow partitioning of the surfactant into the fatty alcohol, (b) cooling the mixture below the chain melt temperature of the premix to form a gel network, (c) adding the gel network to a detersive surfactant and an aqueous carrier to form a cleansing composition. The P&G publication discloses Examples in paragraphs [0186]-[0190], using such gel network containing fatty alcohol and cationic surfactant.

Also, United States Patent Application Publication No. 2016/143827 from Kao discloses a composition that is solid at room temperature and wherein the water content is 10 wt % or less, and a hair conditioner composition prepared by dispersing the solid composition in water at moderate temperatures. European Patent Application Publication No. 2394632 from Shiseido discloses a hair conditioner composition with an extremely low water content, and from which a hair conditioner composition can easily be manufactured simply by diluting with water.

However, there remains a need for conditioning compositions to provide at least one of the followings:

-   -   More flexibility in product composition rheology especially         storage modulus (G′), preferably even when using the same         amounts of actives such as surfactants and high melting point         fatty compounds. Product compositions having different rheology         especially storage modulus (G′) are believed to provide         different moundness, and product composition having a higher         moundness tends to provide rich conditioning perception/feeling         and also tends to be easy to apply to hair and/or easy to hold         on palm.     -   Improved stability of aqueous base compositions and product         compositions, especially when using smaller amounts of actives         such as surfactants and high melting point fatty compounds in         aqueous base compositions.     -   Improved deposition of benefit agents when containing benefit         agents in the composition;     -   Improved stability when containing incompatible components;     -   Improved visual/aesthetic appearance.

None of the existing art provides all of the advantages and benefits of the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a method of preparing a product composition comprising steps of:

Preparing a mixture composition comprising a surfactant and a high melting point fatty compound and a benefit agent other than the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound; Separately preparing an aqueous base composition comprising an aqueous carrier and a water soluble polymer, wherein the base composition is substantially free of a detersive surfactant selected from anionic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactant, amphoteric surfactant, and combinations thereof; Mixing the mixture composition and the aqueous base composition, to form a discrete particle of the mixture composition dispersed in the aqueous base composition.

The present invention is also directed to a method of preparing a product composition comprising steps of:

Preparing a discrete particle of a mixture composition comprising a surfactant and a high melting point fatty compound and a benefit agent other than the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound; Separately preparing an aqueous base composition comprising an aqueous carrier and a water soluble polymer, wherein the base composition is substantially free of a detersive surfactant selected from anionic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactant, amphoteric surfactant, and combinations thereof; Mixing the discrete particle and the aqueous base composition, to disperse the discrete particle in the aqueous base composition.

The methods of the present invention provide a product composition with at least one the followings: more flexibility in the product composition rheology; improved stability in the product composition; improved deposition of benefit agents; and improved visual/aesthetic appearance.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood from a reading of the following description, and appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the invention, it is believed that the present invention will be better understood from the following description.

Herein, “comprising” means that other steps and other ingredients which do not affect the end result can be added. This term encompasses the terms “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of”.

All percentages, parts and ratios are based upon the total weight of the compositions of the present invention, unless otherwise specified. All such weights as they pertain to listed ingredients are based on the active level and, therefore, do not include carriers or by-products that may be included in commercially available materials.

Herein, “mixtures” is meant to include a simple combination of materials and any compounds that may result from their combination.

As used herein, “molecular weight” or “Molecular weight” refers to the weight average molecular weight unless otherwise stated. Molecular weight is measured using industry standard method, gel permeation chromatography (“GPC”).

Mixture Composition

The mixture composition herein comprises a surfactant and a high melting point fatty compound. The mixture composition useful herein further contains a benefit agent. These ingredients are explained later in detail.

The mixtures composition are contained in the product composition at a level by weight of the product composition, of preferably from about 0.01% to about 70%, more preferably from about 0.01% to about 50%, still more preferably from about 0.05% to about 30%, in view of having discrete particles of the mixture composition in the aqueous base composition and in the product composition, and also in view of providing at least one the followings: more flexibility in the product composition rheology; improved stability in the product composition; improved deposition of benefit agents; and improved visual/aesthetic appearance.

When the mixture compositions contain benefit agents and such benefit agents are silicones and/or perfumes, the mixture compositions may be contained in the product composition at a level by weight of the product composition, of preferably from about 0.1% to about 70%, more preferably from about 0.5% to about 50%, still more preferably from about 1% to about 30%, even more preferably from about 2% about 20%.

When the mixture compositions contain benefit agents and such benefit agents are coloring agents and/or mica, the mixture compositions may be contained in the product composition at a level by weight of the product composition, of preferably from about 0.01% to about 50%, and more preferably from about 0.01% to about 30%, still more preferably from about 0.01% to about 20%, even more preferably from about 0.05% to about 10%.

The surfactants and the high melting point fatty compounds are present in the mixture composition, with or without other ingredients, at a level by weight of the mixture composition of, preferably from about 10% to about 99.9%, more preferably from about 20% to about 99.9%, still more preferably from about 40% to about 99.9%, even more preferably from about 60% to about 99.9%, further more preferably from about 80% to about 99.9%, in view of having discrete particles of the mixture composition in the aqueous base composition and in the product composition while containing other ingredients such as benefit agents, and also in view of providing at least one the followings: more flexibility in the product composition rheology; improved stability in the product composition; improved deposition of benefit agents; and improved visual/aesthetic appearance.

Other than the surfactants and high melting point fatty compounds, when the mixture composition contains any liquid such as water-insoluble, water-miscible, and water-soluble liquids and water, it is also preferred to control the level of such liquids, so that the total liquid level in the mixture composition can be up to about 92%, up to about 60%, more preferably up to about 50%, still more preferably up to about 40%, even more preferably up to about 30% by weight of the mixture composition, in view of having discrete particle of the mixture composition in the aqueous base composition and in the product composition.

When the liquid is water insoluble liquid such as silicones, such water insoluble liquid can be contained in the mixture composition at a level by weight of the mixture composition of preferably up to about 90%, up to about 60%, more preferably up to about 50%, still more preferably up to about 40%, even more preferably up to about 30%.

When the liquid is water miscible liquid such propylene glycol and glycerin, such water miscible liquid can be contained in the mixture composition at a level by weight of the mixture composition of preferably up to about 90%, up to about 60%, more preferably up to about 50%, still more preferably up to about 40%, even more preferably up to about 30%.

When the liquid is water soluble liquids such as isopropylalcohol (IPA) and ethanol, such water soluble liquid can be contained in the mixture composition at a level by weight of the mixture composition of preferably up to about 50%, more preferably up to about 30%, still more preferably up to about 20%.

When the mixture composition contains water, it is preferred to control the level of the water so that the mixture composition contains less than about 50% of water, more preferably less than about 25%, still more preferably less than about 15%, even more preferably less than about 10%, further preferably less than about 8% of water, by weight of the mixture composition, in view of having discrete particle of the mixture composition in the aqueous base composition and in the product composition.

Preferably in the mixture composition, the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound are contained at a level such that the weight ratio of the surfactant to the high melting point fatty compound is in the range of from about 1:1 to about 1:10, more preferably from about 1:1 to about 1:4, still more preferably from about 1:2 to about 1:4, in view of providing rheology and/or conditioning benefit.

Surfactant for the Mixture Composition

The surfactant used for the mixture composition is preferably hydrophobic, and is also preferably selected from the group consisting of: a cationic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, and mixtures thereof; and still more preferably a cationic surfactant. Such preferred cationic surfactants are further explained below under the title “CATIONIC SURFACTANT”.

High Melting Point Fatty Compound for the Mixture Composition

The high melting point fatty compound used for the mixture composition is explained below under the title “HIGH MELTING POINT FATTY COMPOUND”.

Benefit Agent for the Mixture Composition

The mixture composition further comprises a benefit agent in addition to the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound, which are different from the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound. This benefit agent is also different from the aqueous carrier and water which may be contained in the mixture composition.

The benefit agent can be contained in the mixture composition at a level by the weight of the mixture composition, of preferably from about 0.1% to about 90%, more preferably from about 0.3% to about 60%, still more preferably from about 0.5% to about 40%, even more preferably from about 0.5% to about 30% in view of providing benefits from the benefit agents and in view of having discrete particle of the mixture composition in the aqueous composition and in the product composition.

Preferably, such benefit agent is selected from the group consisting of silicone compounds, perfumes, coloring agents to add a different color to the discrete particle from the color of the aqueous base composition, incompatible agents which are incompatible to at least one ingredient contained in the aqueous base composition, and mixtures thereof.

Such silicone compounds are further explained below under the title “SILICONE COMPOUND”.

Such perfumes can be anything, for example, perfume per se, and perfume micro capsule (PMC) in which perfume is encapsulated by a polymeric outer layer.

Such coloring agent can be anything, for example, pigments and dyes.

Such incompatible agents are, for example, those selected from the group consisting of: solid minerals or chemical substances that have high ionic strength and/or high surface charge and tend to cause agglomeration and/or crystallization, which are, for example, mica, salicylic acid, and metal pyrithione such as zinc pyrithione with or without ionic polymer coating or dispersion; organic oil material which is highly interactive with gel network component, for example, Hexyl Decanol, Isostearyl Isostearate;

and mixtures thereof.

Depending on the type of the benefit agent, when containing the benefit agent, the product composition may provide at least one of the following:

-   -   Improved deposition of benefit agents;     -   Improved stability when containing incompatible agents;     -   Improved visual/aesthetic appearance when containing coloring         agents to add a different color to the discrete particle from         the color of the aqueous base composition.

Aqueous Base Composition

The aqueous base composition can be included in the product composition at a level of q.s. to 100% by weight of the product composition, preferably from about 30% to about 99.9%, more preferably from about 50% to about 99.9%, still more preferably from about 70% to about 99.9%, even more preferably from about 80% to about 99.9%, further more preferably from about 90% to about 99.9% by weight of the product composition, in view of having discrete particles of the mixture composition in the aqueous base composition and in the product composition.

The aqueous base compositions of the present invention comprise an aqueous carrier. Generally, the aqueous carrier can be contained in the aqueous base compositions at a level of q.s. to 100% of the aqueous base composition, preferably from about 40% to about 99%, more preferably from about 50% to about 95%, still more preferably from about 70% to about 95%, even more preferably from about 80% to about 95% by weight of the aqueous base composition.

Water-Soluble Polymer

The aqueous base composition comprises a water soluble polymer. The aqueous base composition can include, for example, from about 0.005% to about 10%, preferably from about 0.01% to about 5%, more preferably from about 0.05% to about 5%, still more preferably from about 0.1% to about 5%, and even more preferably from about 0.2% to about 3% of the water soluble polymers, by weight of the aqueous base composition.

The water soluble polymers may have solubility in water, measured at 25° C., of from about 0.1 g/L to about 500 g/L. The water soluble polymers may be of synthetic or natural origin and may be modified by means of a chemical reaction.

In an embodiment, the water soluble polymers may have a weight average molecular weight of from about 5,000 g/mol to about 50,000,000 g/mol, alternatively from about 10,000 g/mol to about 10,000,000 g/mol, alternatively from about 20,000 g/mol to about 5,000,000 g/mol, and alternatively from about 100,000 g/mol to about 3,000,000 g/mol.

In an embodiment, the aqueous base composition with the water soluble polymers may have a viscosity at 20° C. of from about 100 centipoise to about 10,000,000 centipoise, alternatively from about 500 centipoise to about 5,000,000 centipoise, and alternatively from about 1000 centipoise to about 100,000 centipoise.

The water soluble polymer can be nonionic, cationic, anionic, amphoteric, and preferably nonionic or cationic especially when the surfactant contained in the discrete particle is nonionic or cationic.

Non-limiting examples of synthetic water soluble polymers may be selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinylpyrrolidones, polyalkylene oxides, polyacrylates, caprolactams, polymethacrylates, polymethylmethacrylates, polyacrylamides, polymethylacrylamides, polydimethylacrylamides, polyethylene glycol monomethacrylates, polyurethanes, polycarboxylic acids, polyvinyl acetates, polyesters, polyamides, polyamines, polyethyleneimines, and PEG-240/HDI COPOLYMER BIS-DECYLTETRADECETH-20ETHER.

Further non-limiting examples of synthetic water soluble polymers may be selected from the group consisting of copolymers of anionic, cationic and amphoteric monomers and mixtures thereof, including maleic acrylate based copolymers, maleic methacrylate based copolymers, copolymers of methylvinyl ether and of maleic anhydride, copolymers of vinyl acetate and of crotonic acid, copolymers of vinylpyrrolidone and of vinyl acetate, and copolymers of vinylpyrrolidone and of caprolactam, polyquaternium-37, polyquaternium-6 and polyquaternium-7.

Non-limiting examples of natural water soluble polymers may be selected from the group consisting of karaya gum, tragacanth gum, gum arabic, acemannan, konjac mannan, acacia gum, gum ghatti, whey protein isolate, soy protein isolate, guar gum, locust bean gum, quince seed gum, psyllium seed gum, carrageenan, alginates, agar, fruit extracts (pectins), xanthan gum, gellan gum, pullulan, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, and dextran, casein, gelatin, keratin, keratin hydrolysates, sulfonic keratins, albumin, collagen, glutelin, glucagons, gluten, zein, shellac, and mixtures thereof.

Non-limiting examples of modified natural water soluble polymers may be selected from the group consisting of (1) cellulose derivatives including hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, hydroxymethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, methylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, ethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, cellulose acetate phthalate, nitrocellulose, cellulose ethers, cellulose esters; and (2) guar derivatives including hydroxypropyl guar. Suitable hydroxypropylmethylcelluloses may include those available from the Dow Chemical Company (Midland, Mich.).

Among them, highly preferred are, Polyquaternium-37 and PEG-240/HDI COPOLYMER BIS-DECYLTETRADECETH-20ETHER.

Water Mobility

Preferably, the aqueous base composition has a water mobility value (T2 (ms)) of from about 50 ms to about 2350 ms, and more preferably from about 70 ms to about 2300 ms, still more preferably from about 90 ms to about 2250 ms. For example, 100% pure water has a water mobility of 2388 ms, and 1.5% water solution of ADEKA NOL GT730 has a water mobility of 2214 ms.

Water mobility value is obtained by measuring spin-spin relaxation time by CPMG method for Pulse NMR Analysis (cp_mb described in the software), in more detail, by using a minispec mq20 NMR Analyzer (Bruker). In a typical measurement, around 5 grams of the sample (the exact weight of the sample is recorded) were sealed in an NMR tube having a diameter of 18 mm. A measurement is started 1 mins after the NMR tube is inserted in the instrument. The measurements are performed under the following conditions:

90°-180° Pulse Separation (tau): 0.04 ms-1.6 ms; Recycle delay time: 25 s; Cumulations times: 8 times; Measurement temperature: 25° C.

The spin-spin relaxation time (T2) is calculated by “contin” method fitting of the exponential decay curve in the minispec software. The peak position was identified by the peak top position.

Substantially Free of Detersive Surfactant

The aqueous base composition of the present invention is substantially free of detersive surfactants. The detersive surfactants herein are those selected from anionic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactant, amphoteric surfactant, and combinations thereof.

In the present invention, “the composition being substantially free of detersive surfactants” means that: the aqueous base composition is free of detersive surfactants; or, if the aqueous base composition contains detersive surfactants, the level of such detersive surfactants is very low. In the present invention, a total level of such detersive surfactants, if included, preferably 0.1% or less, more preferably 0.05% or less, still more preferably 0.01% or less by weight of the aqueous base composition. Most preferably, the total level of such detersive surfactants is 0% by weight of the aqueous base composition.

The product composition (comprising the discrete particles of the mixture composition and the aqueous base composition) may also be substantially free of detersive surfactant.

Surfactant in the Aqueous Base Composition

The aqueous base composition may contain a surfactant, which is preferably hydrophobic, and which is selected from the group consisting of: a cationic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, and mixtures thereof; and preferably a cationic surfactant. Such preferred cationic surfactants are further explained below under the title “CATIONIC SURFACTANT”. The surfactant can be included in the aqueous base composition at a level of preferably from about 0.1% to about 10%, more preferably from about 0.3% to about 8%, still more preferably from about 0.5% to about 5%, even more preferably from about 0.7% to about 4% by weight of the aqueous base composition.

High Melting Point Fatty Compound in the Aqueous Base Composition

The aqueous base composition may contain a high melting point fatty compounds. The high melting point fatty compound can be included in the aqueous base composition at a level of preferably from about 0.5% to about 15%, more preferably from about 1.0% to about 10%, still more preferably from about 1.5% to about 8.0%, even more preferably from about 2.0% to about 6.0%, further more preferably from about 2.5% to about 6.0% by weight of the aqueous base composition.

The high melting point fatty compound is explained below under the title “HIGH MELTING POINT FATTY COMPOUND”.

Benefit Agent for the Aqueous Base Composition

The aqueous base composition may further comprise a benefit agent in addition to the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound, which are different from the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound. This benefit agent is also different from the aqueous carrier and water.

The benefit agent can be contained in the aqueous base composition at a level by the weight of the aqueous base composition, of preferably from about 0.05% to about 60%, more preferably from about 0.1% to about 30%, still more preferably from about 0.1% to about 20%, even more preferably from about 0.1% to about 10%, in view of providing benefits from the benefit agents, and in view of not deteriorating the benefit from the aqueous base composition especially the surfactant and high melting point fatty compound.

The benefit agent can be contained in the aqueous base composition, so that the benefit agent can be contained in the product composition at a level by the weight of the product composition, of preferably from about 0.05% to about 30%, more preferably from about 0.1% to about 15%, still more preferably from about 0.1% to about 10%, even more preferably from about 0.1% to about 7%, in view of providing benefits from the benefit agents, and in view of not deteriorating the benefit from the aqueous base composition especially the surfactant and high melting point fatty compound.

Preferably, such benefit agents used in the aqueous base composition are selected from the group consisting of silicone compounds, perfumes, incompatible agents which are incompatible to at least one ingredient contained in the mixture composition and/or in the discrete particle, and mixtures thereof. More preferably, such benefit agents used in the aqueous base composition are incompatible agents which are incompatible to at least one ingredient contained in the mixture composition and/or in the discrete particle.

Such silicone compounds are further explained below under the title “SILICONE COMPOUND”.

Such perfumes can be anything, for example, perfume per se, and perfume micro capsule (PMC) in which perfume is encapsulated by a polymeric outer layer.

Such incompatible agents are, for example, those selected from the group consisting of: solid minerals or chemical substances that have high ionic strength and/or high surface charge and tend to cause agglomeration and/or crystallization, which are, for example, mica, and metal pyrithione such as zinc pyrithione with or without ionic polymer coating or dispersion; organic oil material which is highly interactive with gel network component, for example, Hexyl Decanol, Isostearyl Isostearate;

and mixtures thereof.

Depending on the type of the benefit agent, when containing the benefit agent, the product composition may provide at least one of the following:

-   -   Improved deposition of benefit agents;     -   Improved stability when containing incompatible agents.

Discrete Particle

The product composition comprises discrete particles of the mixture composition. The discrete particles herein are those dispersed in the aqueous base composition and can be observed as discrete particle in final product composition visually, for example, by microscope, however, those do not show maltese cross sign when measured by polarized light microscopy. This means that the discrete particles useful herein are not vesicles which are often seen in emulsions such as aqueous base composition comprising surfactants, high melting fatty compounds and aqueous carrier. Generally, surfactants, high melting fatty compounds and aqueous carrier form emulsions, preferably a gel matrix. In such emulsions and gel matrix, these components often form lamellar vesicle and/or lamellar sheet. Such Lamellar vesicle can be observed as discrete particle by microscope, however, shows maltese cross sign when measured by polarized microscope.

The discrete particles are contained in the product composition at a level by weight of the product composition, of preferably from about 0.1% to about 70%, more preferably from about 0.1% to about 50%, still more preferably from about 0.1% to about 30%, in view of providing at least one the followings: more flexibility in the product composition rheology; improved stability in the product composition; improved deposition of benefit agents; and improved visual/aesthetic appearance.

The discrete particle is preferably swollen in the product composition, more preferably swollen by aqueous carrier, still more preferably by water. The discrete particle can be swollen in the aqueous base composition by the aqueous carrier and/or water from the aqueous base composition. Alternatively or concurrently, the discrete particle can be swollen before mixing it with the aqueous base composition, for example, when or after preparing the discrete particle from the mixture composition, by using an aqueous carrier and/or water as a solvent to disperse discrete particle. Such solvents are considered as components of the aqueous base composition, when calculating the amount of the component.

It is believed that swelling of the discrete particle is saturated in about 3 days and up to 1 week at the longest regardless the particle size and regardless of benefit agents inside if included. And, it is believed that, if it happens, diffusion and/or collapsing of discrete particle will happens within 1 week and complete within 3 weeks at the longest. It is also believed that physical properties and benefits of the discrete particle may be changed during swelling, diffusion and/or collapsing, but will be stabilized and will not change after 3 weeks. Thus, the discrete particles useful herein exist in the composition preferably for 1 month or longer, more preferably 3 months or longer, still more preferably 6 months or longer, further more preferably for 12 month or longer, even more preferably for 24 month or longer.

The swollen discrete particle preferably has a particle size of from about lmicrometer to about 2000 mictometers, more preferably from about 10 micrometers to about 1000 micrometer, still more preferably from about 50 micrometers to about 500 micrometers. Such swollen discrete particles also can be observed as discrete particles by microscope, however, do not show maltese cross sign when measured by polarized light microscopy.

The discrete particles and the swollen discrete particles herein can be in any shape, for example, spherical shape, rectangular shape, or diamond shape.

Before swelling, preferably, the discrete particle is solid.

Before swelling, the discrete particle preferably comprises 100% of the mixture composition, i.e., consisting of the mixture composition. When the discrete particles contain water before swelling, it is preferred to control the level of the water before swelling, so that the discrete particle before swelling contains less than about 50% of water, more preferably less than about 25%, still more preferably less than about 15%, even more preferably less than about 10%, further preferably less than about 8% of water, by weight of the discrete particle.

Before swelling, the surfactants and the high melting point fatty compounds are present in the discrete particle, with or without other ingredients, at a level by weight of the discrete particle of, preferably from about 10% to about 100%, more preferably from about 20% to about 100%, still more preferably from about 40% to about 100%, even more preferably from about 60% to about 100%, further more preferably from about 80% to about 100%, in view of having discrete particles of the mixture composition in the aqueous base composition and in the product composition.

Before and after swelling, the discrete particle is preferably not an oil-in-water emulsion or water-in-oil-in-water emulsion, more preferably, not any emulsion including water-in-oil emulsion and oil-in-water-in-oil emulsion.

The discrete particle herein is different from particles coated or encapsulated by, for example, polymers.

The discrete particle useful herein is different from swellable silicone elastomer and swellable thickening polymer. Preferably, the discrete particle and the mixture composition are substantially free of such swellable silicone elastomer and swellable thickening polymer. In the present invention, “the discrete particle and the mixture composition being substantially free of swellable silicone elastomer and swellable thickening polymer” means that: the discrete particle and the mixture composition are free of swellable silicone elastomer and swellable thickening polymer; or, if the discrete particle and the mixture composition contains swellable silicone elastomer and swellable thickening polymer, the level of such swellable silicone elastomer and swellable thickening polymer is very low. In the present invention, a total level of such swellable silicone elastomer and swellable thickening polymer, if included, preferably 0.1% or less, more preferably 0.05% or less, still more preferably 0.01% or less by weight of the discrete particle or by the weight of the mixture composition. Most preferably, the total level of such swellable silicone elastomer and swellable thickening polymer is 0% by weight of the discrete particle or by the weight of the mixture composition.

2nd Discrete Particle

The product composition of the present invention may comprise 2nd discrete particle, in addition to the above discrete particle of the present invention which comprises the mixture comprising the surfactant, high melting point fatty alcohol, and benefit agent. The 2nd discrete particle useful herein comprises the mixture excluding the benefit agent, i.e., a mixture comprising a surfactant and a high melting point fatty compound. The components and the properties of the 2nd discrete particles are same as those described for the above discrete particle of the present invention, except for the inclusion of benefit agents.

Product Composition

The product composition comprises the discrete particles and the aqueous base composition, preferably consisting of the discrete particles and the aqueous base composition. The product composition of the present invention can be anything, and is preferably selected from the group consisting of a hair care product composition, a body care product composition, a facial skin care product composition, and mixtures thereof, more preferably a hair care product composition. Among the hair care compositions, still more preferred are hair conditioning compositions wherein the surfactants contained in the discrete particle and the aqueous composition are cationic surfactants.

Product Forms

The product compositions of the present invention can be in the form of rinse-off products or leave-on products, and can be formulated in a wide variety of product forms, including but not limited to creams, gels, emulsions, mousses and sprays. The product composition of the present invention is especially suitable for hair conditioners especially rinse-off hair conditioners.

When used as a rinse-off conditioner, the product composition is preferably used by the following steps:

-   -   (i) after shampooing hair, applying to the hair an effective         amount of the conditioner composition for conditioning the hair;         and     -   (ii) then rinsing the hair.

Effective amount herein is, for example, from about 0.1 ml to about 2 ml per 10 g of hair, preferably from about 0.2 ml to about 1.5 ml per 10 g of hair.

Cationic Surfactant

Cationic surfactant useful herein can be one cationic surfactant or a mixture of two or more cationic surfactants. Preferably, the cationic surfactant is selected from: mono-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt; a combination of mono-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt and di-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt; mono-long alkyl amine; a combination of mono-long alkyl amine and di-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt.

Mono-Long Alkyl Quaternized Ammonium Salt

The mono-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salts useful herein are those having one long alkyl chain which has from 12 to 30 carbon atoms, preferably from 16 to 24 carbon atoms, more preferably C18-22 alkyl group. The remaining groups attached to nitrogen are independently selected from an alkyl group of from 1 to about 4 carbon atoms or an alkoxy, polyoxyalkylene, alkylamido, hydroxyalkyl, aryl or alkylaryl group having up to about 4 carbon atoms.

Mono-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salts useful herein are those having the formula (I):

wherein one of R⁷⁵, R⁷⁶, R⁷⁷ and R⁷⁸ is selected from an alkyl group of from 12 to 30 carbon atoms or an aromatic, alkoxy, polyoxyalkylene, alkylamido, hydroxyalkyl, aryl or alkylaryl group having up to about 30 carbon atoms; the remainder of R⁷⁵, R⁷⁶, R⁷⁷ and R⁷⁸ are independently selected from an alkyl group of from 1 to about 4 carbon atoms or an alkoxy, polyoxyalkylene, alkylamido, hydroxyalkyl, aryl or alkylaryl group having up to about 4 carbon atoms; and X⁻ is a salt-forming anion such as those selected from halogen, (e.g. chloride, bromide), acetate, citrate, lactate, glycolate, phosphate, nitrate, sulfonate, sulfate, alkylsulfate, and alkyl sulfonate radicals. The alkyl groups can contain, in addition to carbon and hydrogen atoms, ether and/or ester linkages, and other groups such as amino groups. The longer chain alkyl groups, e.g., those of about 12 carbons, or higher, can be saturated or unsaturated. Preferably, one of R⁷⁵, R⁷⁶, R⁷⁷ and R⁷⁸ is selected from an alkyl group of from 12 to 30 carbon atoms, more preferably from 16 to 24 carbon atoms, still more preferably from 18 to 22 carbon atoms, even more preferably 22 carbon atoms; the remainder of R⁷⁵, R⁷⁶, R⁷⁷ and R⁷⁸ are independently selected from CH₃, C₂H₅, C₂H₄OH, and mixtures thereof; and X is selected from the group consisting of Cl, Br, CH₃OSO₃, C₂H₅OSO₃, and mixtures thereof.

Nonlimiting examples of such mono-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt cationic surfactants include: behenyl trimethyl ammonium salt; stearyl trimethyl ammonium salt; cetyl trimethyl ammonium salt; and hydrogenated tallow alkyl trimethyl ammonium salt.

Di-Long Alkyl Quaternized Ammonium Salts

When used, di-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salts are preferably combined with a mono-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salt or mono-long alkyl amine salt, at the weight ratio of from 1:1 to 1:5, more preferably from 1:1.2 to 1:5, still more preferably from 1:1.5 to 1:4, in view of stability in rheology and conditioning benefits.

Di-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salts useful herein are those having two long alkyl chains of from 12 to 30 carbon atoms, more preferably from 16 to 24 carbon atoms, still more preferably from 18 to 22 carbon atoms. Such di-long alkyl quaternized ammonium salts useful herein are those having the formula (I):

wherein two of R⁷¹, R⁷², R⁷³ and R⁷⁴ are selected from an aliphatic group of from 12 to 30 carbon atoms, preferably from 16 to 24 carbon atoms, more preferably from 18 to 22 carbon atoms or an aromatic, alkoxy, polyoxyalkylene, alkylamido, hydroxyalkyl, aryl or alkylaryl group having up to about 30 carbon atoms; the remainder of R⁷¹, R⁷², R⁷³ and R⁷⁴ are independently selected from an aliphatic group of from 1 to about 8 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to 3 carbon atoms or an aromatic, alkoxy, polyoxyalkylene, alkylamido, hydroxyalkyl, aryl or alkylaryl group having up to about 8 carbon atoms; and X⁻ is a salt-forming anion selected from the group consisting of halides such as chloride and bromide, C1-C4 alkyl sulfate such as methosulfate and ethosulfate, and mixtures thereof. The aliphatic groups can contain, in addition to carbon and hydrogen atoms, ether linkages, and other groups such as amino groups. The longer chain aliphatic groups, e.g., those of about 16 carbons, or higher, can be saturated or unsaturated. Preferably, two of R⁷¹, R⁷², R⁷³ and R⁷⁴ are selected from an alkyl group of from 12 to 30 carbon atoms, preferably from 16 to 24 carbon atoms, more preferably from 18 to 22 carbon atoms; and the remainder of R⁷¹, R⁷², R⁷³ and R⁷⁴ are independently selected from CH₃, C₂H₅, C₂H₄OH, CH₂C₆H₅, and mixtures thereof.

Such preferred di-long alkyl cationic surfactants include, for example, dialkyl (14-18) dimethyl ammonium chloride, ditallow alkyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, dihydrogenated tallow alkyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, distearyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, and dicetyl dimethyl ammonium chloride.

Mono-Long Alkyl Amidoamine Salt

Mono-long alkyl amines are also suitable as cationic surfactants. Primary, secondary, and tertiary fatty amines are useful. Particularly useful are tertiary amido amines having an alkyl group of from about 12 to about 22 carbons. Exemplary tertiary amido amines include: stearamidopropyldimethylamine, stearamidopropyldiethylamine, stearamidoethyldiethylamine, stearamidoethyldimethylamine, palmitamidopropyldimethylamine, palmitamidopropyldiethylamine, palmitamidoethyldiethylamine, palmitamidoethyldimethylamine, behenamidopropyldimethylamine, behenamidopropyldiethylamine, behenamidoethyldiethylamine, behenamidoethyldimethylamine, arachidamidopropyldimethylamine, arachidamidopropyldiethyl amine, arachidamidoethyldiethylamine, arachidamidoethyldimethylamine, diethylaminoethylstearamide. Useful amines in the present invention are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,275,055, Nachtigal, et al. These amines can also be used in combination with acids such as L-glutamic acid, lactic acid, hydrochloric acid, malic acid, succinic acid, acetic acid, fumaric acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, L-glutamic hydrochloride, maleic acid, and mixtures thereof; more preferably L-glutamic acid, lactic acid, citric acid. The amines herein are preferably partially neutralized with any of the acids at a molar ratio of the amine to the acid of from about 1:0.3 to about 1:2, more preferably from about 1:0.4 to about 1:1.

High Melting Point Fatty Compound

The high melting point fatty compound useful herein have a melting point of 25° C. or higher, preferably 40° C. or higher, more preferably 45° C. or higher, still more preferably 50° C. or higher, in view of stability of the emulsion especially the gel matrix. Preferably, such melting point is up to about 90° C., more preferably up to about 80° C., still more preferably up to about 70° C., even more preferably up to about 65° C., in view of easier manufacturing and easier emulsification. In the present invention, the high melting point fatty compound can be used as a single compound or as a blend or mixture of at least two high melting point fatty compounds. When used as such blend or mixture, the above melting point means the melting point of the blend or mixture.

The high melting point fatty compound useful herein is selected from the group consisting of fatty alcohols, fatty acids, fatty alcohol derivatives, fatty acid derivatives, and mixtures thereof. It is understood by the artisan that the compounds disclosed in this section of the specification can in some instances fall into more than one classification, e.g., some fatty alcohol derivatives can also be classified as fatty acid derivatives. However, a given classification is not intended to be a limitation on that particular compound, but is done so for convenience of classification and nomenclature. Further, it is understood by the artisan that, depending on the number and position of double bonds, and length and position of the branches, certain compounds having certain required carbon atoms may have a melting point of less than the above preferred in the present invention. Such compounds of low melting point are not intended to be included in this section. Nonlimiting examples of the high melting point compounds are found in International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary, Fifth Edition, 1993, and CTFA Cosmetic Ingredient Handbook, Second Edition, 1992.

Among a variety of high melting point fatty compounds, fatty alcohols are preferably used in the composition of the present invention. The fatty alcohols useful herein are those having from about 14 to about 30 carbon atoms, preferably from about 16 to about 22 carbon atoms. These fatty alcohols are saturated and can be straight or branched chain alcohols.

Preferred fatty alcohols include, for example, cetyl alcohol (having a melting point of about 56° C.), stearyl alcohol (having a melting point of about 58-59° C.), behenyl alcohol (having a melting point of about 71° C.), and mixtures thereof. These compounds are known to have the above melting point. However, they often have lower melting points when supplied, since such supplied products are often mixtures of fatty alcohols having alkyl chain length distribution in which the main alkyl chain is cetyl, stearyl or behenyl group.

In the present invention, more preferred fatty alcohol is a mixture of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol.

Generally, in the mixture, the weight ratio of cetyl alcohol to stearyl alcohol is preferably from about 1:9 to 9:1, more preferably from about 1:4 to about 4:1, still more preferably from about 1:2.3 to about 1.5:1

Aqueous Carrier

The level and species of the aqueous carrier are selected according to the compatibility with other components, and other desired characteristics of the product.

The carrier useful in the present invention includes water and water solutions of lower alkyl alcohols. The lower alkyl alcohols useful herein are monohydric alcohols having 1 to 6 carbons, more preferably ethanol and isopropanol.

Preferably, the aqueous carrier is substantially water. Deionized water is preferably used. Water from natural sources including mineral cations can also be used, depending on the desired characteristic of the product.

Silicone Compound

Preferably, when contained in the aqueous base composition, the silicone compounds have an average particle size of from about 10 nm to about 100 micron, more preferably from about 0.1 microns to about 100 microns, still more preferably from about 1 microns to about 50 microns, in the aqueous base composition.

The silicone compounds useful herein, as a single compound, as a blend or mixture of at least two silicone compounds, or as a blend or mixture of at least one silicone compound and at least one solvent, have a viscosity of preferably from about 1,000 to about 2,000,000 mPa·s at 25° C.

The viscosity can be measured by means of a glass capillary viscometer as set forth in Dow Corning Corporate Test Method CTM0004, Jul. 20, 1970. Suitable silicone fluids include polyalkyl siloxanes, polyaryl siloxanes, polyalkylaryl siloxanes, polyether siloxane copolymers, amino substituted silicones, quaternized silicones, and mixtures thereof. Other nonvolatile silicone compounds having conditioning properties can also be used.

In some embodiments, amino substituted silicones are preferably used. Preferred aminosilicones include, for example, those which conform to the general formula (I):

(R₁)_(a)G_(3-a)-Si—(—OSiG₂)_(n)—(—OSiG_(b)(R₁)_(2-b))_(m)—O—SiG_(3-a)(R₁)_(a)

wherein G is hydrogen, phenyl, hydroxy, or C₁-C₈ alkyl, preferably methyl; a is 0 or an integer having a value from 1 to 3, preferably 1; b is 0, 1 or 2, preferably 1; n is a number from 0 to 1,999; m is an integer from 0 to 1,999; the sum of n and m is a number from 1 to 2,000; a and m are not both 0; R₁ is a monovalent radical conforming to the general formula CqH_(2q)L, wherein q is an integer having a value from 2 to 8 and L is selected from the following groups: —N(R₂)CH₂—CH₂—N(R₂)₂; —N(R₂)₂; —N(R₂)₃A⁻; —N(R₂)CH₂—CH₂—NR₂H₂A⁻; wherein R₂ is hydrogen, phenyl, benzyl, or a saturated hydrocarbon radical, preferably an alkyl radical from about C₁ to about C₂₀; A⁻ is a halide ion.

Highly preferred amino silicones are those corresponding to formula (I) wherein m=0, a=1, q=3, G=methyl, n is preferably from about 1500 to about 1700, more preferably about 1600; and L is —N(CH₃)₂ or —NH₂, more preferably —NH₂. Another highly preferred amino silicones are those corresponding to formula (I) wherein m=0, a=1, q=3, G=methyl, n is preferably from about 400 to about 600, more preferably about 500; and L is —N(CH₃)₂ or —NH₂, more preferably —NH₂. Such highly preferred amino silicones can be called as terminal aminosilicones, as one or both ends of the silicone chain are terminated by nitrogen containing group.

The above aminosilicones, when incorporated into the composition, can be mixed with solvent having a lower viscosity. Such solvents include, for example, polar or non-polar, volatile or non-volatile oils. Such oils include, for example, silicone oils, hydrocarbons, and esters. Among such a variety of solvents, preferred are those selected from the group consisting of non-polar, volatile hydrocarbons, volatile cyclic silicones, non-volatile linear silicones, and mixtures thereof. The non-volatile linear silicones useful herein are those having a viscosity of from about 1 to about 20,000 centistokes, preferably from about 20 to about 10,000 centistokes at 25° C. Among the preferred solvents, highly preferred are non-polar, volatile hydrocarbons, especially non-polar, volatile isoparaffins, in view of reducing the viscosity of the aminosilicones and providing improved hair conditioning benefits such as reduced friction on dry hair. Such mixtures have a viscosity of preferably from about 1,000 mPa·s to about 100,000 mPa·s, more preferably from about 5,000 mPa·s to about 50,000 mPa·s.

Other suitable alkylamino substituted silicone compounds include those having alkylamino substitutions as pendant groups of a silicone backbone. Highly preferred are those known as “amodimethicone”. Commercially available amodimethicones useful herein include, for example, BY16-872 available from Dow Corning.

Silicone Polymer Containing Quaternary Groups

Silicone compounds useful herein include, for example, a Silicone Polymer Containing Quaternary Groups comprising terminal ester groups, having a viscosity up to 100,000 mPa·s and a D block length of greater than 200 D units. Without being bound by theory, this low viscosity silicone polymer provides improved conditioning benefits such as smooth feel, reduced friction, and prevention of hair damage, while eliminating the need for a silicone blend.

Structurally, the silicone polymer is a polyorganosiloxane compound comprising one or more quaternary ammonium groups, at least one silicone block comprising greater than 200 siloxane units, at least one polyalkylene oxide structural unit, and at least one terminal ester group. In one or more embodiments, the silicone block may comprise between 300 to 500 siloxane units.

The silicone polymer is present in an amount of from about 0.05% to about 15%, preferably from about 0.1% to about 10%, more preferably from about 0.15% to about 5%, and even more preferably from about 0.2% to about 4% by weight of the composition.

In a preferred embodiment, the polyorganosiloxane compounds have the general formulas (Ia) and (Ib):

M-Y—[—(N⁺R₂-T-N⁺R₂)—Y-]_(m)-[—(NR²-A-E-A′-NR²)—Y-]_(k)-M  (Ia)

M-Y—[—(N⁺R₂-T-N⁺R₂)—Y-]_(m)-[—(N⁺R² ₂-A-E-A′-N⁺R² ₂)—Y-]_(k)-M  (Ib)

wherein: m is >0, preferred 0.01 to 100, more preferred 0.1 to 100, even more preferred 1 to 100, specifically 1 to 50, more specifically 1 to 20, even more specifically 1 to 10, k is 0 or an average value of from >0 to 50, or preferably from 1 to 20, or even more preferably from 1 to 10, M represents a terminal group, comprising terminal ester groups selected from

-   -   OC(O)—Z     -   OS(O)₂—Z     -   OS(O₂)O—Z     -   OP(O)(O—Z)OH     -   OP(O)(O—Z)₂         wherein Z is selected from monovalent organic residues having up         to 40 carbon atoms, optionally comprising one or more hetero         atoms.         A and A′ each are independently from each other selected from a         single bond or a divalent organic group having up to 10 carbon         atoms and one or more hetero atoms, and         E is a polyalkylene oxide group of the general formula:

[CH₂CH₂O]_(q)—[CH₂CH(CH₃)O]_(r)—[CH₂CH(C₂H₅)O]_(s)—

wherein q=0 to 200, r=0 to 200, s=0 to 200, and q+r+s=1 to 600. R² is selected from hydrogen or R, R is selected from monovalent organic groups having up to 22 carbon atoms and optionally one or more heteroatoms, and wherein the free valencies at the nitrogen atoms are bound to carbon atoms, Y is a group of the formula:

with

wherein R1═C₁-C₂₂-alkyl, C₁-C₂₂-fluoralkyl or aryl; n=200 to 1000, and these can be identical or different if several S Groups are present in the polyorganosiloxane compound. K is a bivalent or trivalent straight chain, cyclic and/or branched C₂-C₄₀ hydrocarbon residue which is optionally interrupted by —O—, —NH—, trivalent N, —NR¹—, —C(O)—, —C(S)—, and optionally substituted with —OH, wherein R¹ is defined as above, T is selected from a divalent organic group having up to 20 carbon atoms and one or more hetero atoms.

The residues K may be identical or different from each other. In the —K—S—K-moiety, the residue K is bound to the silicon atom of the residue S via a C—Si-bond.

Due to the possible presence of amine groups (—(NR²-A-E-A′-NR²)—) in the polyorganosiloxane compounds, they may have protonated ammonium groups, resulting from the protonation of such amine groups with organic or inorganic acids. Such compounds are sometimes referred to as acid addition salts of the polyorganosiloxane compounds.

In a preferred embodiment the molar ratio of the quaternary ammonium groups b) and the terminal ester groups c) is less than 100:20, even more preferred is less than 100:30 and is most preferred less than 100:50. The ratio can be determined by ¹³C-NMR.

In a further embodiment, the polyorganosiloxane composition may comprise:

A) at least one polyorganosiloxane compound, comprising a) at least one polyorganosiloxane group, b) at least one quaternary ammonium group, c) at least one terminal ester group, and d) at least one polyalkylene oxide group (as defined before), B) at least one polyorganosiloxane compound, comprising at least one terminal ester group, different from compound A).

In the definition of component A) it can be referred to the description of the polyorganosiloxane compounds of the invention. The polyorganosiloxane compound B) differs from the polyorganosiloxane compound A) preferably in that it does not comprise quaternary ammonium groups. Preferred polyorganosiloxane compounds B) result from the reaction of monofunctional organic acids, in particular carboxylic acids, and polyorganosiloxane containing bisepoxides.

In the polyorganosiloxane compositions the weight ratio of compound A) to compound B) is preferably less than 90:10. Or in other words, the content of component B) is at least 10 weight percent. In a further preferred embodiment of the polyorganosiloxane compositions in compound A) the molar ratio of the quaternary ammonium groups b) and the terminal ester groups c) is less than 100:10, even more preferred is less than 100:15 and is most preferred less than 100:20.

The silicone polymer has a viscosity at 20° C. and a shear rate of 0.1 s⁻¹ (plate-plate system, plate diameter 40 mm, gap width 0.5 mm) of less than 100,000 mPa·s (100 Pa·s). In further embodiments, the viscosities of the neat silicone polymers may range from 500 to 100,000 mPa·s, or preferably from 500 to 70,000 mPa·s, or more preferably from 500 to 50,000 mPa·s, or even more preferably from 500 to 20,000 mPa·s. In further embodiments, the viscosities of the neat polymers may range from 500 to 10,000 mPa·s, or preferably 500 to 5000 mPa·s determined at 20° C. and a shear rate of 0.1 s⁻¹.

In addition to the above listed silicone polymers, the following preferred compositions are provided below. For example, in the polyalkylene oxide group E of the general formula:

[CH₂CH₂O]_(q)—[CH₂CH(CH₃)O]_(r)—[CH₂CH(C₂H₅)O]_(s)—

wherein the q, r, and s indices may be defined as follows: q=0 to 200, or preferably from 0 to 100, or more preferably from 0 to 50, or even more preferably from 0 to 20, r=0 to 200, or preferably from 0 to 100, or more preferably from 0 to 50, or even more preferably from 0 to 20, s=0 to 200, or preferably from 0 to 100, or more preferably from 0 to 50, or even more preferably from 0 to 20, and q+r+s=1 to 600, or preferably from 1 to 100, or more preferably from 1 to 50, or even more preferably from 1 to 40.

For polyorganosiloxane structural units with the general formula S:

R¹═C₁-C₂₂-alkyl, C₁-C₂₂-fluoralkyl or aryl; n=from 200 to 1000, or preferably from 300 to 500, K (in the group —K—S—K—) is preferably a bivalent or trivalent straight chain, cyclical or branched C₂-C₂₀ hydrocarbon residue which is optionally interrupted by —O—, —NH—, trivalent N, —NR¹—, —C(O)—, —C(S)—, and optionally substituted with —OH.

In specific embodiments, IV is C₁-C₁₈ alkyl, C₁-C₁₈ fluoroalkyl and aryl. Furthermore, IV is preferably C₁-C₁₈ alkyl, C₁-C₆ fluoroalkyl and aryl. Furthermore, IV is more preferably C₁-C₆ alkyl, C₁-C₆ fluoroalkyl, even more preferably C₁-C₄ fluoroalkyl, and phenyl. Most preferably, R¹ is methyl, ethyl, trifluoropropyl and phenyl.

As used herein, the term “C₁-C₂₂ alkyl” means that the aliphatic hydrocarbon groups possess from 1 to 22 carbon atoms which can be straight chain or branched. Methyl, ethyl, propyl, n-butyl, pentyl, hexyl, heptyl, nonyl, decyl, undecyl, isopropyl, neopentyl and 1,2,3-trimethyl hexyl moieties serve as examples.

Further as used herein, the term “C₁-C₂₂ fluoroalkyl” means aliphatic hydrocarbon compounds with 1 to 22 carbon atoms which can be straight chain or branched and are substituted with at least one fluorine atom. Monofluormethyl, monofluoroethyl, 1,1,1-trifluorethyl, perfluoroethyl, 1,1,1-trifluoropropyl, 1,2,2-trifluorobutyl are suitable examples.

Moreover, the term “aryl” means unsubstituted or phenyl substituted once or several times with OH, F, Cl, CF₃, C₁-C₆ alkyl, C₁-C₆ alkoxy, C₃-C₇ cycloalkyl, C₂-C₆ alkenyl or phenyl. Aryl may also mean naphthyl.

For the embodiments of the polyorganosiloxanes, the positive charges resulting from the ammonium group(s), are neutralized with inorganic anions such as chloride, bromide, hydrogen sulfate, sulfate, or organic anions, like carboxylates deriving from C1-C30 carboxylic acids, for example acetate, propionate, octanoate, especially from C10-C18 carboxylic acids, for example decanoate, dodecanoate, tetradecanoate, hexadecanoate, octadecanoate and oleate, alkylpolyethercarboxylate, alkylsulphonate, arylsulphonate, alkylarylsulphonate, alkylsulphate, alkylpolyethersulphate, phosphates derived from phosphoric acid mono alkyl/aryl ester and phosphoric acid dialkyl/aryl ester. The properties of the polyorganosiloxane compounds can be, inter alia, modified based upon the selection of acids used.

The quaternary ammonium groups are usually generated by reacting the di-tertiary amines with an alkylating agents, selected from in particular di-epoxides (sometimes referred to also as bis-epoxides) in the presence of mono carboxylic acids and difunctional dihalogen alkyl compounds.

In a preferred embodiment the polyorganosiloxane compounds are of the general formulas (Ia) and (Ib):

M-Y—[—(N⁺R₂-T-N⁺R₂)—Y-]_(m)-[—(NR²-A-E-A′-NR²)—Y-]_(k)-M  (Ia)

M-Y—[—(N⁺R₂-T-N⁺R₂)—Y-]_(m)-[—(N⁺R² ₂-A-E-A′-N⁺R² ₂)—Y-]_(k)-M  (Ib)

wherein each group is as defined above; however, the repeating units are in a statistical arrangement (i.e., not a block-wise arrangement).

In a further preferred embodiment the polyorganosiloxane compounds may be also of the general formulas (IIa) or (IIb):

M-Y—[—(N⁺R₂—Y-]_(m)-[—(NR²-A-E-A′-NR²)—Y-]_(k)-M  (Ia)

M-Y—[—(N⁺R₂—Y-]_(m)-[—(N⁺R² ₂-A-E-A′-N⁺R² ₂)—Y-]_(k)-M  (Ib)

wherein each group is as defined above. Also in such formula the repeating units are usually in a statistical arrangement (i.e. not a block-wise arrangement).

wherein, as defined above, M is

-   -   OC(O)—Z,     -   OS(O)₂—Z     -   OS(O₂)O—Z     -   OP(O)(O—Z)OH     -   OP(O)(O—Z)₂

Z is a straight chain, cyclic or branched saturated or unsaturated C₁-C₂₀, or preferably C₂ to C₁₈, or even more preferably a hydrocarbon radical, which can be interrupted by one or more —O—, or —C(O)— and substituted with —OH. In a specific embodiment, M is —OC(O)—Z resulting from normal carboxylic acids in particular with more than 10 carbon atoms like for example dodecanoic acid.

In a further embodiment, the molar ratio of the polyorganosiloxane-containing repeating group —K—S—K— and the polyalkylene repeating group -A-E-A′- or -A′-E-A- is between 100:1 and 1:100, or preferably between 20:1 and 1:20, or more preferably between 10:1 and 1:10.

In the group —(N⁺R₂-T-N⁺R₂)—, R may represent a monovalent straight chain, cyclic or branched C₁-C₂₀ hydrocarbon radical, which can be interrupted by one or more —O—, —C(O)— and can be substituted by —OH, T may represent a divalent straight-chain, cyclic, or branched C₁-C₂₀ hydrocarbon radical, which can be interrupted by —O—, —C(O)— and can be substituted by hydroxyl.

The above described polyorganosiloxane compounds comprising quaternary ammonium functions and ester functions may also contain: 1) individual molecules which contain quaternary ammonium functions and no ester functions; 2) molecules which contain quaternary ammonium functions and ester functions; and 3) molecules which contain ester functions and no quaternary ammonium functions. While not limited to structure, the above described polyorganosiloxane compounds comprising quaternary ammonium functions and ester functions are to be understood as mixtures of molecules comprising a certain averaged amount and ratio of both moieties.

Various monofunctional organic acids may be utilized to yield the esters. Exemplary embodiments include C₁-C₃₀ carboxylic acids, for example C₂, C₃, C₈ acids, C₁₀-C₁₈ carboxylic acids, for example C₁₂, C₁₄, C₁₆ acids, saturated, unsaturated and hydroxyl functionalized Cis acids, alkylpolyethercarboxylic acids, alkylsulphonic acids, arylsulphonic acids, alkylarylsulphonic acids, alkylsulphuric acids, alkylpolyethersulphuric acids, phosphoric acid mono alkyl/aryl esters and phosphoric acid dialkyl/aryl esters.

Additional Components

The aqueous base composition of the present invention may include other additional components, which may be selected by the artisan according to the desired characteristics of the final product and which are suitable for rendering the composition more cosmetically or aesthetically acceptable or to provide them with additional usage benefits. Such other additional components generally are used individually at levels of from about 0.001% to about 10%, preferably up to about 5% by weight of the composition.

A wide variety of other additional components can be formulated into the present compositions. These include: other conditioning agents such as hydrolysed collagen with tradename Peptein 2000 available from Hormel, vitamin E with tradename Emix-d available from Eisai, panthenol available from Roche, panthenyl ethyl ether available from Roche, hydrolysed keratin, proteins, plant extracts, and nutrients; preservatives such as benzyl alcohol, methyl paraben, propyl paraben and imidazolidinyl urea; pH adjusting agents, such as citric acid, sodium citrate, succinic acid, phosphoric acid, sodium hydroxide, sodium carbonate; coloring agents, such as any of the FD&C or D&C dyes; perfumes; ultraviolet and infrared screening and absorbing agents such as benzophenones; and antidandruff agents such as zinc pyrithione.

Method of Preparation of Product Compositions

The product composition of the present invention is prepared by below METHOD A or METHOD B.

Method A

The product composition of the present invention is prepared by the following method (hereinafter METHOD A) comprising the steps of:

Preparing a mixture composition comprising a surfactant and a high melting point fatty compound and a benefit agent; Separately preparing an aqueous base composition comprising an aqueous carrier and a water soluble polymer, wherein the base composition is substantially free of a detersive surfactant selected from anionic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactant, amphoteric surfactant, and combinations thereof; Mixing the mixture composition and the aqueous base composition, to form a discrete particle of the mixture composition dispersed in the aqueous base composition.

Preferably, when mixed, the mixture composition and the aqueous base composition respectively have a temperature lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound.

Preferably, when mixed, the mixture composition has a temperature lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the mixture composition, and the mixture composition has such temperature during and after mixing with the aqueous base composition. Also preferably, the aqueous base composition also has a temperature lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the mixture composition when mixed with the mixture composition, and has such temperature during and after mixing with the mixture composition.

Thus, when mixed, the mixture composition and the aqueous base composition respectively have a temperature of preferably at least 2° C. lower, more preferably at least 5° C. lower, still more preferably at least 10° C. lower, even more preferably at least 15° C. lower than the above melting point of the high melting point fatty compound.

It is also preferred that, when mixed, the mixture composition and the aqueous base composition respectively have a temperature of from about 0° C. to about 50° C., more preferably from about 10° C. to about 40° C., still more preferably from about 15° C. to about 35° C.

Method B

Alternatively, the product composition of the present invention is prepared by the following method (hereinafter METHOD B) comprising the steps of:

Preparing a discrete particle of a mixture composition wherein the mixture composition comprises a surfactant and a high melting point fatty compound and a benefit agent; Separately preparing an aqueous base composition comprising an aqueous carrier and a water soluble polymer, wherein the base composition is substantially free of a detersive surfactant selected from anionic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactant, amphoteric surfactant, and combinations thereof; Mixing the discrete particle and the aqueous base composition, to disperse discrete particle in the aqueous base composition.

In this METHOD B, the discrete particle may be preferably solid.

In METHOD B, a solvent or carrier may be used to prepare discrete particle of the mixture composition. Such solvents and carriers are considered as components of the aqueous base composition when calculating the amounts of components.

Preferably, when mixed, the discrete particle and the aqueous base composition respectively have a temperature lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound.

Preferably, when mixed, the discrete particle has a temperature lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the discrete particle, and the discrete particle has such temperature during and after mixing with the aqueous base composition. Also preferably, the aqueous base composition also has a temperature lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the discrete particle when mixed with the discrete particle, and has such temperature during and after mixing with the discrete particle.

Thus, when mixed, the discrete particle and the aqueous base composition respectively have a temperature of preferably at least 2° C. lower, more preferably at least 5° C. lower, still more preferably at least 10° C. lower, even more preferably at least 15° C. lower than the above melting point of the high melting point fatty compound.

It is also preferred that, when mixed, the discrete particle and the aqueous base composition respectively have a temperature of from about 0° C. to about 50° C., more preferably from about 10° C. to about 40° C., still more preferably from about 15° C. to about 35° C.

Preparation of the Mixture Composition

Both in METHOD A and B, preferably, the mixture composition is prepared by steps of: preparing a melting mixture composition comprising the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound, wherein the temperature of the melting mixture composition is higher than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the mixture composition; cooling the melting mixture composition to a temperature which is lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the mixture composition, to form the mixture composition. In METHOD B, the discrete particle can be prepared concurrently when preparing the mixture composition during the above cooling step, or can be prepared after forming the mixture composition.

Preferably, the temperature of the melting mixture composition is at least 2° C., still more preferably at least 5° C., even more preferably at least 10° C. higher than the above melting point of the high melting point fatty compound. It is also preferred that the temperature of the melting mixture composition is from about 30° C. to about 150° C., more preferably from about 40° C. to about 100° C., still more preferably from about 50° C. to about 95° C., even more preferably from about 55° C. to about 90° C., further more preferably from about 66° C. to about 90° C.

Preferably, the melting mixture composition is cooled to a temperature which is lower than a melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the mixture composition, more preferably at least 2° C., more preferably at least 5° C., still more preferably at least 10° C. lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the mixture composition. It is also preferred that the melting mixture composition is cooled to a temperature of from about −200° C. to about 50° C., more preferably from about −40° C. to about 50° C., still more preferably from about 0° C. to about 30° C.

When Containing the Benefit Agents in the Mixture Composition

When the mixture composition further comprises the benefit agents, the mixture composition can be prepared by steps of:

Preparing a melting mixture composition comprising the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound, wherein the temperature of the melting mixture composition is higher than a melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the mixture composition; cooling the melting mixture composition to the temperature which is lower than a melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the mixture composition, to form the mixture composition, wherein the benefit agent can be added anytime depending on the properties of the benefit agent, for example, the benefit agent can be added to the mixture composition before cooling, during cooling especially when using volatile benefit agent such as perfumes, or after cooling preferably right after cooling such as within 30 min after cooling.

When the mixture composition comprises a benefit agent, the benefit agent can be homogeneously mixed with the mixture composition, and homogeneous discrete particles can be formed in the compositions.

Alternatively, in the discrete particle, the benefit agent can form an inner core covered by an outer shell formed by the mixture composition.

When Containing the Benefit Agent in the Aqueous Base Composition

When the aqueous base composition comprises a benefit agent, the benefit agent can be homogeneously mixed with the aqueous base composition.

When the aqueous base composition comprises a benefit agent, the benefit agent can be added to the aqueous base composition anytime, for example, before adding the mixture composition and/or the discrete particle, after adding the mixture composition and/or the discrete particle, and/or concurrently with the discrete particle.

EXAMPLES

The following examples further describe and demonstrate embodiments within the scope of the present invention. The examples are given solely for the purpose of illustration and are not to be construed as limitations of the present invention, as many variations thereof are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Where applicable, ingredients are identified by chemical or CTFA name, or otherwise defined below.

Product Composition—M

Wt % in the product composition Ex. M-1 Ex. M-2 Aqueous base Water soluble polymer-1 *2 1.5 1.5 composition Water q.s. to 100% q.s. to 100% Mixture Mixture composition having the 9.4 0.2 composition following composition (w % in the mixture composition) Cetyl alcohol 14.7 Stearyl alcohol 36.9 BTMS/IPA *1 43.4 Gold mica 5.0 Particle size of Discrete particle, before mixing 2 cm 0.75 mm Discrete particle Swollen Discrete particles of the mixture composition are dispersed in the aqueous base composition and observed in the product composition by microscope for at least 12 months. The swollen discrete particles do not show maltese cross when measured by polarized microscope. The swollen discrete particles are not water-in- oil or water-in-oil-in-water emulsion. Cleanness in manufacturing equipment Almost no mica residues are observed in the equipment for mixing the discrete particle and the aqueous base composition, and afterwards

Product Compositions—P

Wt % in the product composition Ex. P-1 Ex. P-2 Aqueous Benzyl Alcohol 0.4 0.4 base Kathon CG 0.03  0.03 composition Water soluble polymer-2 *3 0.4 0.4 Water q.s. to 100% q.s. to 100% Mixture Mixture composition having the 12.5 — composition-1 following composition (wt % in the mixture composition) Cetyl alcohol 10.8 Stearyl alcohol 26.9 BTMS/IPA *1 31.6 Aminosilicone *4 23.9 Pink dye 0.4 Water 0.6 Polysorbate20 1.1 Benzyl alcohol 0.4 Redline 246514 4.3 Mixture Mixture composition 0.1 composition-2 having the following composition: (wt % in the mixture composition) Cetyl alcohol 14.7 Stearyl alcohol 36.9 BTMS/IPA *1 43.4 Charcoal 5.0 Particle size of Discrete particle, before mixing 2 cm 0.75 cm Discrete particle Swollen discrete particles of the mixture composition are dispersed in the aqueous base composition and observed in the product composition by microscope for at least 3 months in Ex. P-1 and for at least 1 month in Ex. P-2. The swollen discrete particles do not show maltese cross when measured by polarized microscope. The swollen discrete particles are not water-in-oil or water-in-oil- in-water emulsion.

Product Compositions—CEx.

Wt % in the product composition CEx. i Aqueous base Water q.s. to 100% composition Mixture composition Mixture composition having the 6.86 following composition Wt % in the mixture composition BTMS/IPA *1 45.6 Cetyl Alcohol 15.5 Stearyl alcohol 38.9 Particle size of Discrete particle, before mixing with the 1 mm aqueous base composition Discrete particle Discrete particles of the mixture composition are diffused and collapsing in the aqueous base composition and NOT observed in the product composition by microscope within1 week

Definitions of Components

-   -   1 BTMS/IPA: 80% of Behenyl Trimethyl Ammonium Methosulfate and         20% of Isopropyl alcohol     -   2 Water soluble polymer-1: ADEKA NOL GT-730 supplied from Adeka         (30% of PEG-240/HDI COPOLYMER BIS-DECYLTETRADECETH-20 ETHER, 50%         of butylene glycol, and 20% of water)     -   3 Water soluble polymer-2: Polyquaternium-37     -   4 Aminosilicone: Available from Momentive having a viscosity         10,000 mPa·s, and having following formula (I):

(R₁)_(a)G_(3-a)-Si—(—OSiG₂)_(n)—(—OSiG_(b)(R₁)_(2-b))_(m)—O—SiG_(3-a)(R₁)_(a)  (I)

-   -   wherein G is methyl; a is an integer of 1; b is 0, 1 or 2,         preferably 1; n is a number from 400 to about 600; m is an         integer of 0; R₁ is a monovalent radical conforming to the         general formula CqH_(2q)L, wherein q is an integer of 3 and L is         —NH₂

Method of Preparation of the Product Composition

The embodiments disclosed and represented by “Ex.” are hair conditioning product compositions made by the method of the present invention, and were prepared by Method B explained above, and the following in more detail:

Preparing the mixture composition comprising the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound and benefit agent, wherein the mixture composition was prepared by the following method:

-   -   Preparing a melting mixture composition wherein the temperature         of the melting mixture composition is higher than a melting         point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the         mixture composition, i.e., from about 66° C. to about 90° C.;     -   Cooling the melting mixture composition to a temperature which         is lower than a melting point of the high melting point fatty         compound contained in the mixture composition, i.e., from about         0° C. to about 40° C., to form the mixture composition.         Preparing a solid discrete particle consisting of the mixture         composition;         Separately preparing an aqueous base composition;         Mixing the discrete particle and the aqueous base composition,         both having a temperature lower than a melting point of the high         melting point fatty compound contained in the mixture         composition, i.e., from about 10° C. to about 40° C., so that         the discrete particle is dispersed in the aqueous base         composition.

Discrete particles are swollen in the product composition.

The hair conditioner product compositions disclosed and represented by “CEx.” are comparative examples, and were prepared by either the above METHOD B when the compositions contain discrete particles or a conventional method when the compositions do not contain discrete particles.

Properties and Conditioning Benefits

For some of the above compositions, properties and conditioning benefits are evaluated by the following methods. Results of the evaluation are also shown above.

The embodiments disclosed and represented by “Ex.” are hair conditioning product compositions made by the method of the present invention which are particularly useful for rinse-off use, and have many advantages. For example, the product composition made by the method of the present invention provides at least one the followings: more flexibility in the product composition rheology; improved stability in the product composition; and improved deposition of benefit agents when including benefit agents; and improved visual/aesthetic appearance.

For example, the examples of the present invention may provide aesthetic benefit from the product appearance that “the discrete particle dispersed in transparent/translucent the aqueous base composition”, compared to the comparative example “CEx. i” wherein the discrete particles are diffused and collapsing.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean “about 40 mm”.

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or related patent or application, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of preparing a product composition comprising steps of: Preparing a mixture composition comprising a surfactant and a high melting point fatty compound and a benefit agent other than the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound; Separately preparing an aqueous base composition comprising an aqueous carrier and a water soluble polymer, wherein the base composition is substantially free of a detersive surfactant selected from anionic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactant, amphoteric surfactant, and combinations thereof; Mixing the mixture composition and the aqueous base composition, to form a discrete particle of the mixture composition dispersed in the aqueous base composition
 2. A method of preparing a product composition comprising steps of: Preparing a discrete particle of a mixture composition comprising a surfactant and a high melting point fatty compound and a benefit agent other than the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound; Separately preparing an aqueous base composition comprising an aqueous carrier and a water soluble polymer, wherein the base composition is substantially free of a detersive surfactant selected from anionic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactant, amphoteric surfactant, and combinations thereof; Mixing the discrete particle and the aqueous base composition, to disperse the discrete particle in the aqueous base composition.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein mixing the mixture composition and the aqueous base composition, both at a temperature lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the mixture compound.
 4. The method of claim 2, wherein mixing the discrete particle and the aqueous base composition, both at a temperature lower than the melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the discrete particle.
 5. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the mixture composition is prepared by steps of: preparing a melting mixture composition comprising the surfactant and the high melting point fatty compound, wherein the temperature of the melting mixture composition is higher than a melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the mixture composition; cooling the melting mixture composition to the temperature which is lower than a melting point of the high melting point fatty compound contained in the mixture composition, to form the mixture composition; wherein the benefit agent is added to the mixture composition before cooling, during cooling and/or right after cooling.
 6. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the water soluble polymer is selected from the group consisting of: a cationic water soluble polymer, a nonionic water soluble polymer, and mixtures thereof.
 7. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the water soluble polymer has an average molecular weight of from about 5,000 g/mol to about 50,000,000 g/mol.
 8. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the aqueous base composition has a viscosity of from about 100 centipoise to about 10,000,000 centipoise.
 9. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the discrete particle does not have maltese cross.
 10. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the discrete particles are not coated or encapsulated.
 11. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the discrete particle exists in the composition for 1 month or longer, preferably 3 months or longer, more preferably 6 months or longer, still more preferably 12 months or longer.
 12. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the discrete particle is swollen in the product composition.
 13. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the discrete particle is not an oil-in-water emulsion or water-in-oil-in-water emulsion.
 14. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the discrete particle before swelling is solid.
 15. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the discrete particle before swelling contains less than about 50% of water, more preferably less than about 25%, still more preferably less than about 15%, by weight of the discrete particle.
 16. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the discrete particle before swelling comprises from about 10% to about 100%, more preferably from about 20% to about 100%, still more preferably from about 40% to about 100% of the surfactants and the high melting point fatty compounds, by weight of the discrete particle.
 17. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the surfactant contained in the discrete particle is hydrophobic.
 18. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the surfactant contained in the discrete particle is selected from the group consisting of: a cationic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, and mixtures thereof, more preferably wherein the surfactant contained in the discrete particle is a cationic surfactant.
 19. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the product composition is selected from the group consisting of a hair care composition, a body care composition, a facial skin care composition, and mixtures thereof, preferably wherein the product composition is a hair care composition.
 20. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the benefit agent is selected from the group consisting of silicone compounds, perfumes, coloring agents to add a different color to the discrete particle from the color of the aqueous base composition, incompatible agents which are incompatible to at least one ingredient contained in the aqueous base composition, and mixtures thereof.
 21. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the benefit agent is different from aqueous carrier and water. 